The Washington Wizards have spent years stuck in the NBA’s basement, cycling through rebuilds, retools, and roster resets that never quite stuck. But now, for the first time in a long time, there’s a real sense that something’s finally taking shape in D.C.
This season marked a turning point. The Wizards didn’t just tear it all down-they rebuilt with purpose.
That effort started at the top, with the hiring of Will Dawkins as President of Monumental Basketball and general manager. Then came head coach Brian Keefe, who earned the full-time job after impressing during his stint as interim head coach following Wes Unseld Jr.’s departure.
With leadership in place, the focus shifted to the floor-and the results are starting to show.
Washington’s young core is beginning to flash real potential. Sophomores Alex Sarr and Kyshawn George have emerged as foundational pieces, showing growth that suggests they’re more than just developmental projects.
And then there’s Tre Johnson, the rookie guard who’s been turning heads with a late-season surge. His rise has given the Wizards a much-needed jolt of confidence-and perhaps even accelerated their rebuild timeline.
That confidence translated into action at the trade deadline, where the Wizards made two of the boldest moves in the league: acquiring Trae Young and Anthony Davis. It was a clear signal to the rest of the Eastern Conference-the Wizards aren’t content with just being competitive down the line. They’re ready to start making noise now.
Of course, they’re not quite there yet. Even with Young and Davis in the fold, Washington still feels like it’s one piece away from being a true contender in the East. But that final piece could be on the horizon.
With the 2026 NBA Draft looming, the Wizards are firmly in position to land the No. 1 overall pick. And if that happens, the name at the top of their board is likely Darryn Peterson.
Peterson, the standout guard from Kansas, has been lighting it up this season. He’s averaging 21.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.3 steals per game, while shooting an eye-popping 49.4% from the field and 43.2% from three. At 6-foot-6, he brings a rare combination of size, athleticism, and shot-making ability that makes him the consensus top prospect in this year’s class.
For Washington, Peterson would be more than just a high-upside rookie-he could be the perfect complement to what they’re already building. A backcourt trio of Trae Young, Tre Johnson, and Darryn Peterson would give the Wizards a dynamic mix of scoring, playmaking, and versatility. It’s the kind of foundation that could not only get them out of the rebuild but catapult them into the playoff picture-and beyond.
The Wizards have been patient, and for years, that patience tested the fanbase. But now, there’s a real plan in motion-and if things break their way this offseason, Washington might just be ready to turn the page on the past and write a new chapter in franchise history.